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1997 850 Charging issues

Help, Advice and DIY Tutorials on Volvo's P80 platform cars -- Volvo's 1990s "bread and butter" cars -- powered by the ubiquitous and durable Volvo inline 5-cylinder engine.

1992 - 1997 850, including 850 R, 850 T-5R, 850 T-5, 850 GLT
1997 - 2000 S70, S70 AWD
1997 - 2000 V70, V70 AWD
1997 - 2000 V70-XC
1997 - 2004 C70

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wilslap3
Posts: 1
Joined: 2 August 2018
Year and Model: 1997 850 & 2001 S40
Location: ID

1997 850 Charging issues

Post by wilslap3 »

So, wondering if anyone can give me any ideas.

The wagon started not wanting to turn over every once in awhile, and upon further inspection I was only getting about 13.2 volts. When I turned on the AC or the brights, it would drop down to 12.4 volts. So this obviously wasn't enough for charging, got the battery tested, came back good, voltage regulator came back bad. Figured since those dang voltage regulators were so expensive, I would just order a refurbished alternator. So went ahead and replaced the alternator. Same thing though, 13.2 volts. So I yanked it out, and took it to the local shop to have them bench test it. Came back faulty. So I figured just some bad luck, ordered another, but this time I had it tested before I put it in, and it worked great on the bench test. After installing the second one, still 13.2 volts. I've cleaned all of the connectors, and replaced the serpentine belt, but still nothing.

At this point just looking for some suggestions, I've done some web searching but haven't had any luck. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!!! :D

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abscate
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Post by abscate »

Put the battery on charger overnight, then load it for 30 seconds with headlights, then measure voltage and report.

How old is it in service?
Empty Nester
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1999-V70-T5M56 2005-V70-M56 1999-S70 VW T4 XC90-in-Red
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jreed
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Post by jreed »

I agree with the above suggestion to test the battery.
In addition, it would be a good idea to measure the voltage drop across the positive battery cable between the battery post and the starter and the alternator. When the system is running, the voltage drop should be less than 0.2V. If the voltage drop is higher than that, the cable, crimps or connectors are faulty.
1997 855 GLT (Light Pressure Turbo) still going strong. Previous: 1986 240 GL rusted out in '06, 1985 Saab 900T rusted out in '95, 1975 Saab 99 rusted out in '95, 1973 Saab 99 rusted out in '94

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